Unforgettable Journey: What You’ll Experience When You Swim with Manatees

3 Key Takeaways:

  1. Swimming with manatees is a unique experience, but there are risks involved to understand and safety protocols to adhere to.
  2. Crystal River, Florida is one of the best places to swim with manatees and there are companies that offer manatee tours.
  3. When swimming with manatees, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and respect their space.

 

Swimming with manatees offers a unique, unforgettable encounter. They descended from land mammals over 50 million years ago, known as sea cows. These gentle creatures inhabit warm, shallow coastal waters and can be found in around 80 countries in the Americas, West Africa, and Asia. Swimming with manatees provides one of the most rewarding wildlife experiences.

To ensure safe co-existence during swimming encounters, it’s crucial to understand risks, make necessary preparations, and consider regulations.

Risks of Swimming with Manatees

Swimming with manatees is an exciting adventure and an unforgettable experience, but due to the size and strength of these gentle creatures, it can be dangerous. Manatees weigh up to 1000 pounds and use tusks to protect themselves when threatened. Be aware of surroundings and potential risks from sea turtles, stingrays, and other aquatic animals. Take precautions to avoid infection when swimming with manatees.

Preparation for Swimming with Manatees

Before getting into the water with manatees, it is important to make sure you are familiar with the safety protocols to follow. It is essential to dress appropriately, wear socks with soles to provide extra traction and use a life vest in order to float. It is also recommended to bring a towel, sunscreen and a hat.

Location And Access

Manatees can be found around the world in tropical waters and warm, coastal areas, but one of the best places to swim with manatees is in Crystal River, Florida. It is here that you can find companies that provide manatee tours and guide you through the process of swimming with manatees.

Regulations

Swimming with manatees is regulated due to the fact that manatees are a protected species. There are laws in place to make sure that the wildlife is not disturbed or harmed, as well as rules in place to make sure that manatees are kept safe from humans.

Swimming with Manatees

Once you are in the water with a manatee, the experience is like no other. The manatees are naturally curious and gentle creatures, so they will often come up to you and investigate. It is important to remember to stay calm and still, so as not to startle the manatee.  Respect their space and avoid touching them or making loud noises while they are around.

Aftermath

After your swimming adventure, savor the feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction. You encountered something unique and extraordinary. Continue with activities such as taking pictures, learning facts about manatees, or volunteering at a local wildlife sanctuary.

Conclusion

Swimming with manatees gives a unique experience and lifetime memories. If you desire the perfect place for this journey, select Captain Mike’s Swimming With The Manatees. They provide the best manatee tours in Crystal River, FL. Their experienced guides and knowledgeable staff ensure the best swimming experience with manatees.

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Secrets to Staying Safe While Swimming with Manatees

Key takeaways:

  • Firstly, it is essential to keep safety in mind, maintain a safe distance of at least 10 feet, and refrain from touching, feeding, and corralling them. 
  • Secondly, swimming with manatees can provide physical and mental health benefits.
  • Lastly, when swimming with manatees, it is important to form good habits such as refraining from touching or feeding them and wearing the proper swimwear.

Manatees are a gentle, slow-moving species of aquatic mammals found along the coastlines of the southeastern United States and in the Amazon River. They are large, friendly animals that have the potential to give people thrilling close encounters with the wild. While swimming with manatees can be an enjoyable and unique experience, it is important to stay safe and responsible when viewing these animals in the wild.

Safety Concerns

Safety is paramount when it comes to swimming with manatees. Swimmers should maintain a safe distance, typically no closer than 10 feet, when encountering a manatee. Touching, feeding, and corralling these animals is strictly prohibited. Making sudden or loud noises can startle manatees, so it is important to be mindful of the sound levels in the area. Additionally, it is important to be aware of boat motor noises, as manatees are highly sensitive to these sounds. Refrain from chasing and splashing the animals, as this can cause them to become stressed and react aggressively.

Potential Benefits

Swimming with manatees has the potential to provide physical and mental health benefits. Since manatees are slow-moving creatures, the physical strain of swimming with them is less than usual, making it a great exercise option for those with physical limitations. Additionally, there are many mental benefits to consider when swimming with manatees. Seeing these creatures up close and personal can be deeply calming for some people, as the motion and sound of the creatures in the water can be a truly unique and exciting experience.

Developing Good Habits

To ensure the best and safest experience when swimming with manatees, good habits are essential. Refrain from touching or feeding them, as this can cause them to be agitated and harm the ecosystem by teaching the animals to look to humans for food. Additionally, make sure to always wear proper swimwear and equipment when in their vicinity. This includes full-length swimwear and a good pair of goggles or a mask to get a better view of the animals.

Conclusion

Exploring and swimming with manatees can be a thrilling experience, but it is important to keep safety in mind in order to prevent any potential harm to either the humans or the animals involved. By taking precautions such as refraining from touching or feeding manatees, and wearing the proper swimwear and equipment, one can observe these gentle creatures in a safe and respectful way. Although there are potential risks involved, the potential benefits of swimming with manatees make it an experience worth considering.

At Captain Mike’s Swimming with the Manatees, you can enjoy the underwater wonders of the Crystal River, FL, in the perfect setting. Our experienced team of professionals provides tailored tours that are safe, enjoyable, and informative.

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Coexisting with Florida Manatees

Key Takeaways:

  1. Florida manatees are an endangered species whose population is in decline, mainly due to watercraft collisions, entrapment, and habitat destruction and loss.
  2. Boaters can coexist with the animals by slowing down in their habitat, avoiding shallow areas, paying attention to signs of manatee presence, and not chasing or harassing them.
  3. Swimmers should also take care to observe manatees from a safe distance, avoid disturbing them, and not offer them food or water.

Florida manatees are unique marine mammals found in Florida’s waterways. They have existed in Florida for millions of years, mainly in the rivers and coastal waters of the state. With a total recorded population of only 7,500 in 2022, they are one of the most endangered animal species living in US waters.

What major threats face Florida manatees?

  1. Watercraft collisions

The greatest threat to Florida manatees is accidental collisions with watercraft. The animals are gray and difficult to see in water, and they are slow and unable to escape a speeding vessel. Moreover, most boaters are often unaware of their presence and unknowingly hit or run them over, resulting in injuries and deaths. Furthermore, up to 85% of all manatees in Florida have scar patterns on their tails or backs caused by collisions with watercraft.

  1. Entrapment

Every year, a number of manatees die after being entrapped in canal locks and floodgates. When trapped, manatees may lose their flippers, a key body part they use for swimming, eating, and nursing. Moreover, from available records, more than 199 sea cows have died of entrapment in these gates and locks since 1974. Furthermore, some manatees also get entangled in fishing lines or ropes.

  1. Increased habitat destruction and loss

Furthermore, habitat degradation caused starvation. Manatees crowded remaining springs, increasing vulnerability to diseases. Manatees sought power plant outflows, where 60% aggregate on cold winter days. Artificial warm-water sources are unsustainable when power plants close.

Pollution and red tides endanger manatees by depleting vegetation, leading to starvation. 1,100 and 800 manatee deaths occurred in 2021 and 2022 due to starvation. To protect Florida manatees, address challenges and implement effective conservation measures for their future.

Coexisting with Florida Manatees

Humans can prevent a bigger number of manatees from dying in the next few years if they take greater measures to protect them. Human activities are the primary cause of most manatee deaths, making a more careful and respectful behavior in their habitat crucial in protecting them. Additionally, coexisting with Florida manatees requires us to adopt various ways to ensure their safety. Besides, implementing stricter regulations on boating and watercraft speed limits in manatee habitats can significantly reduce the risk of fatal collisions. 

Furthermore, raising public awareness about manatees and the importance of their conservation plays a key role in garnering support for protective measures. Moreover, establishing protected areas and sanctuaries for manatees can offer them a safe space to thrive without disturbance from human-related activities. Additionally, promoting responsible fishing practices and reducing littering near water bodies can indirectly contribute to the well-being of manatees by preserving their ecosystem. Lastly, fostering a sense of responsibility and stewardship among local communities and tourists is vital in ensuring a sustainable coexistence with these gentle marine creatures. By taking these steps and respecting their habitat, we can pave the way for a brighter future for Florida manatees.

  1. Responsible boating

Collision with boats and other watercrafts is a serious, but preventable threat to manatees. As a boater, you can coexist with the sea cows by following boating rules while in their habitat.

    1. Slow down when in their habitat

There are posted speed zones and limits in manatee habitats. Obey them. Remember: manatees swim slowly, and they spend more time near the water surface—breathing, feeding, or swimming. Slowing down gives you and the animals a better chance of avoiding a collision.

    1. Avoid shallow areas

Manatees live in shallow waters, rich in sea grass and other plants they feed on. So there will always be manatees feeding in these areas, and your boat may easily hit them. Stick to deeper channels in order to avoid the manatees.

    1. Watch out for signs of manatee presence

Being aware of signs of manatee presence helps you to keep your distance and avoid them. Look out for a tail, back flipper or nose of a sea cow breaking out of the water surface, or for a flat swirl that may mean a manatee is swimming close to the water surface.

    1. Don’t harass a manatee

You may be tempted to touch, feed, or give water to manatees. But doing so is considered harassment as it can make the animals accustomed to human interaction.

    1. Wear polarized sunglasses

With polarized sunglasses, you can easily see manatees in water. The glasses cut out glare and give you the best chance of seeing the animals.

    1. Don’t chase manatees

Even when you see a manatee and are excited about it, don’t use your vessel to chase, follow, or corner it. When a manatee is nearby, turn off your boat to stop and watch it from a safe distance.

  1. Taking precaution when in a marina

Manatees are curious animals and may hang around marinas and docks. Such manatees may be injured as you leave the dock, so just before you head out on a boating trip, you need to take measures to save the animals.

    1. Inspect the surrounding water

Before you turn your motor, be sure there is no manatee ahead by inspecting the surrounding water for signs of manatee presence. Ease out slowly when certain there is none.

    1. Keep a safe distance

If you see a manatee along your path, give it way. It does not matter whether it is just one manatee—the sea cow may be traveling in a group or with a calf that you can’t see.

    1. Never give food or water to a manatee

It is illegal to give food or water to a manatee. That will make the sea cow used to handouts from humans, and more likely to approach humans and boats in future, and eventually get injured. Being accustomed to humans may also encourage the animals to come to the marina frequently, ending up entangled in ropes or fishing lines.

  1. Measures when swimming in their habitat
    1. Keep your distance and observe them passively—never approaching, chasing or touching a manatee.
    2. Dive gently into the water, with minimal noise and splashing.
    3. Wear a swimsuit to keep you warm and increase your buoyancy, and use a snorkel gear to minimize splashing and disruption.
    4. Don’t pursue, corner, or chase a manatee. Don’t block a manatee’s path if it moves towards you.
    5. Don’t disturb resting, sleeping or nursing manatees. Don’t disturb mating herds.
    6. Don’t give a manatee food or water.
    7. Don’t hit, jump on, stand on, hold on to, ride, kick, grab, hook, hunt, injure, or kill a manatee.
    8. Don’t separate a cow and her calf or a manatee from the rest of the group.

     4. Other ways of coexisting with Florida manatees

    1. Dispose of trash properly.
    2. Donate to support programs run by manatee conservation organizations.
    3. Become aware and involved in legislative proposals and other political processes concerning manatees.
    4. Save an injured manatee by calling 1-888-404-FWCC. This will allow a trained manatee assessor to come help the animal. Don’t try to help it yourself as you can injure the animal or yourself.

Exceptional Manatee Tours

Do you want to see and swim with manatees in Crystal River, Florida? Captain Mike’s Swimming with the Manatees offers manatee tours designed to encourage respectful interactions with these adorable creatures. Our tours are run by skilled, experienced captains who will guide you on the right ways to coexist with manatees while you are in the water. For more information about manatees and manatee tours in Crystal River, Florida, please visit the website “Captain Mike’s Swimming with the Manatees.”

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Preparation for Swimming with Manatees

Essential Packing Guide for a Manatee Swimming Adventure

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • It is important to bring the necessary clothing and equipment, such as swimwear, sun protection, snorkeling gear, and flotation devices, for a safe and enjoyable manatee swimming experience.
  • Safety items such as neoprene gloves and a first aid kit are essential for protecting yourself when exploring the waters.
  • To capture the moment, bring a waterproof camera, binoculars and any other miscellaneous items to help make the trip unforgettable.

Introduction

A manatee swimming adventure is an incredible way to connect with nature. It’s a unique experience to interact with the gentle manatees in Florida’s waters. Whether you’re a novice or an expert swimmer, there’s no better way to immerse yourself in the wild than jump right in and join these gentle giants. But before taking the plunge, it’s essential to make sure you’re prepared with all the right supplies and equipment to make your excursion an easy and enjoyable experience.

Necessary Clothing

When selecting an outfit for your manatee swimming excursion, keep in mind that it is likely to be wet and slightly cold in the water. Manatees are generally found in waters between sixty and seventy degrees Fahrenheit, so a strategic wardrobe is important. Swimwear that offers good coverage is ideal for this type of excursion. Board shorts with a rash guard top are a great option since they provide more protection from the sun and kelp. Regardless of the weather for the day, a light outer layer like a windbreaker is a good suggestion as well. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can also opt for a wetsuit to protect from any potential scrapes and stings.

Additional Equipment

Many organizations require you to use their own snorkeling equipment. However, if renting isn’t available, it’s a good idea to bring your own. A good snorkeling set should include a mask, snorkel and fins. If your set allows, pack a pocket knife and a waterproof container for your belongings. Sun protection products are also essential. Sunscreen, polarized sunglasses and a hat are all essential items. Additionally, you may want to bring any other special equipment you need.

Safety Items

Manatee swimming excursions should be thoroughly enjoyed, but also approached with the utmost caution. Neoprene gloves are an important item to have with you because they protect you from any potentially sharp objects that may be encountered in the water. Additionally, a first-aid kit should be packed with all the necessary supplies for a safe and healthy experience including but not limited to band-aids, hand sanitizer, and pain relief items. Lastly, carrying some form of flotation devices is always a good idea in case exhaustion sets in.

Miscellaneous Items

A convenient way to capture all the moments of your manatee swimming excursion is bringing a camera. Choose a waterproof one to ensure it stays safe and dry. Binoculars come in handy to view the manatees from a distance, and a book or magazine can keep you entertained in between the moments in the water.

Conclusion

Before embarking on your manatee swimming adventure, make sure to check with local regulations, such as whether a formal guide is required or if swimming with manatees is allowed at all. Basic understanding of the wildlife you may encounter is also highly recommended. When packing for the excursion, make sure to bring all of the necessary clothing, safety items, and miscellaneous items to ensure the most enjoyable experience. With the right preparation and appreciation for safety, you will surely have a great time and make lasting memories.

For an amazing guide for a manatee swimming experience, look no further than Captain Mike’s Swimming With The Manatees. Located in Crystal River, Florida, they offer guided tours with experienced and knowledgeable captains who will show you the best of this natural habitat. So have an amazing time and make unforgettable memories on your next manatee swimming adventure.

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Where Do Manatees Migrate To?

Key takeaways

  • 1. Manatees migrate to warm-water areas during colder months, such as natural springs and power plant outflows, and travel as far north as Virginia and as far west as Texas in the summer.
  • 2. Manatees rely on warm-water refuges for survival during cold weather, as cold water temperatures below 68 degrees Fahrenheit causes cold shock and death.
  • 3. Manatees can be found near power plant outflows, where up to 1000 manatees can be seen in the winter, and natural warm-water springs can be found in Florida, although many have been degraded or lost due to human activity.

In the summer, manatees usually travel freely in Florida’s rivers and coastal waters. But during colder months, they migrate to warm-water areas—usually to natural warm-water springs and to power plant outflows.

Now, towards the end of March every year, Florida manatees journey away from their warm winter refuges. Then they roam freely, and are widely dispersed in rivers and coastal waters.

This is also the time of unlimited exploration for the manatees. So, they swim for miles and miles, feasting on plentiful vegetation, joining in mating herds and enjoying the warmth that summer provides. In fact, some of them may travel as far north as Virginia and as far west as Texas.

In November, the water temperature in the Gulf and other coastal areas begins to drop. This triggers manatee migration away from coastal bays and oceans. And again, the sea cows head inland for the warm waters in artesian springs and power plant discharge basins.

Migratory Species

Manatees are a migratory species. That’s because they have no inherent mechanism for keeping a steady body temperature.

And so, while the ideal manatee habitat should have water temperature above 70 degrees Fahrenheit, temperatures usually drop drastically in winter and the animals have to find new homes.

Sadly, if for any reason a manatee is not able to migrate, it eventually dies. Why? Because it won’t survive a prolonged exposure to cold water—water temperature below 68 degrees Fahrenheit causes cold shock and death of manatees.

Manatees can’t stand cold water for three reasons:

  1. They are not fat

Well, they look fat and insulated. But, in reality, they aren’t. Their huge body is predominantly made of their stomach and intestines—not fat. Inadequate body fat means they are not insulated against cold.

  1. They feed on low-energy diet

Manatees eat a lot. They spend more than 6 hours every day grazing. But the plants they eat have low energy content. Hence, manatees don’t get enough heat from their diet to keep themselves warm during cold weather.

  1. They have low metabolic rate

The sea cows use up the food they eat slowly. And so, they aren’t able to convert the food to energy quickly enough to compensate for heat loss in cold water.

Life-Saving Natural Springs

Historically, manatees have relied on natural artesian springs for survival in winter. The springs are supplied by underground water and so manage to keep a constant temperature of at least 72 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year.

Florida has a large concentration of these natural springs. Hence, manatees have several warm-water refuges in inland Florida to protect them in winter.

Besides, the springs tend to have plenty of sea grass beds or have available food sources nearby. This allows manatees to get enough food during their winter retreats, traveling to and from these food sources within the same day.

The mammals travel longer distances to forage when the weather is a little warmer and shorter distances to graze during cold weather.

Unfortunately, most of the springs that used to dot Florida’s landscape are now degraded, altered, or even completely lost due to groundwater pumping for agricultural and urban development, blockage by dams, or drowning under reservoirs. And so, manatees have had to look for alternatives.

Power Plant Outflows as an Alternative

Florida has seen an increase in electric power plants and other structures that produce artificial sources of warm water. And for over 70 years now, the warm water pouring out of these power plants have gradually become excellent winter refuges for manatees.

In fact, today more manatees are addicted to industrial water. And over 60% of Florida manatee population relies on outflows from power plants for survival in winter.

For instance, the Cape Canaveral Florida Power & Light Company plant hosts as many as 1,000 manatees in winter. And the coal-fired Big Bend Power Station near Tampa is a winter home to between 500-700 manatees.

A growing concern, though, is the loss of power plant hot hubs. The USFWS is considering options such as slowly weaning manatees off the power plants, enhancing natural warm-water springs, and creating new man-made springs.

Remarkable, Unforgettable Manatee Tours

Want to see the manatees up close? At Captain Mike’s Swimming with the Manatees, we provide manatee tours designed to ensure you encounter these adorable mammals in the wild.

Our tours are run by a knowledgeable and experienced crew that knows where to find the sea cows and how to respectfully interact with them. We are committed to giving value to our visitors and promise to offer you a tour that will exceed your expectations.

For more information on manatees and manatee tours in Crystal River, Florida, visit the site “Captain Mike’s Swimming with the Manatees.”

References:

Manatees and Their Habitats: 10 Amazing Facts

Key takeaways

  • Manatees prefer shallow, brackish water with plenty of vegetation and warm temperatures.
  • Manatees are migratory animals, expanding their range in the summer and relying on natural springs and power plant outflows for warmth in the winter.
  • They peacefully coexist with other animals, however they are currently facing the threat of starvation due to the loss of seagrass beds.

Manatees are large, gray aquatic mammals, with a fascinating streamlined, round-in-the-middle, narrowing-at-the-tail body shape, and a wrinkled head and face, with whiskers on the snout, and two flippers with 3-4 nails each. Because of their peaceful, curious, and friendly nature, they are easy, exciting, and safe to interact with in water; their wonderful bond with their calves is a joy to watch, and their dazzling moves, such as barrel rolling and somersaulting, ensure a breathtaking experience.

Here are 10 amazing facts about manatees and their habitats:

1. They live in shallow, calm water.

Manatees prefer a slow-paced life in shallow, calm rivers, bays, estuaries, canals, and coastal areas; as long as the water is slightly over 1 meter (3.25 feet) deep and is connected to the coast, they are good to go. But why shallow water? Well, manatees are herbivores; they feed on plenty of sea grass and other vegetation each day. Since seagrass requires sunlight and shallow water to thrive, manatees stick to shallow water. Secondly, manatees can’t tolerate cold; they have minimal body fat for insulation, and have a low metabolic rate that can’t generate enough heat to compensate for heat loss to the surrounding. Now, because shallow water is often warmer than deep water, manatees prefer life in shallow areas.

2. They inhabit brackish waters.

Although manatees can move freely between fresh and saline waters, they are often found in brackish waters; brackish water refers to water found in a natural environment with more salinity than freshwater, though not as much salt as in sea water. Because manatees are typically found in water channels connected to the coast, their habitats are often brackish.

3. They live in areas with abundant vegetation.

A manatee eats up roughly 10-percent of its weight in vegetation each day; that’s at least 100 pounds of plant material per day. So, the sea cows prefer to live in waterways with extensive beds of vegetation, including sea grass, eelgrass, water hyacinth, and other vegetation.

4. They inhabit warm water.

For a manatee to have normal metabolic processes, the water temperature must be above 70 degrees. At a lower temperature, their already lower metabolic rate drops further, and the animals may stop feeding and die. Also, though they look fat, most of their body is just a large stomach and longer intestines; they have minimal body fat and are not insulated. And so, when water temperature drops below 68 degrees, they get cold shock, which is usually fatal. Hence, they prefer life in warm water.

5. They are migratory animals.

Because manatees need warmth to survive, and water temperature usually changes with seasons, the animals have to migrate in search for warmer water areas. They migrate to and gather in peninsular Florida during winter, then when summer comes, they disperse and roam freely in Florida’s rivers and coastal areas.

6. They expand their range in summer.

When it is summer, water is warm almost everywhere; for manatees, this is the time to swim and explore far areas. Hence, they swim away from their winter refuges and expand their range. Manatees cover hundreds of miles in summer, traveling along channels and shorelines. In addition, some even travel as far west as Texas on the Gulf Coast, and as far north as Massachusetts on the Atlantic Ocean.

7. They have historically relied on natural springs.

Manatees traditionally relied on natural sulfur or freshwater springs for winter survival. Fortunately, Florida has a huge concentration of artesian springs, maintaining a temperature of at least 72 degrees year-round. These springs were the sea cows’ migration destination in colder months. However, lately, manatees have had to find alternatives as most springs were altered, degraded, or lost due to groundwater pumping for agriculture, urban development, dam construction, or reservoir creation.

8. They depend on power plant outflows for survival.

Florida’s abundance of electric power plants and artificial structures release warm water into surrounding channels. Over time, manatees have learned to use these power plant hot hubs for winter warmth. Currently, more than 60 percent of manatees depend on these industrial sources during cold months.

9. They coexist with other animals.

Manatees peacefully share habitats with other animals. They coexist with alligators, armored catfish, turtles, small sharks, oysters, frogs, snails, mollusks, and flounders in marine waters. They show no aggression towards these creatures, exemplifying their ability to coexist harmoniously.

10. They are facing the threat of starvation.

Manatees face scarcity of plant-based diet due to polluted and degraded habitats. The loss of seagrass beds and vegetation from algal blooms, chemicals, and contamination leads to increased manatee deaths from starvation. For example, in 2021, there were 841 recorded manatee deaths between January 1 and July 2. This is one of the highest recorded numbers of sea cow deaths of any year in recent recorded history, only second to the numbers in 2013. Moreover, the deaths in 2021 were primarily due to starvation caused by the loss of seagrass beds in the Indian River Lagoon and surrounding waters.

Wonderful, unforgettable manatee tours

Experience the thrill of swimming and kayaking with manatees in Crystal River, Florida, offered by Captain Mike’s Swimming with the Manatees. Delight in private and semi-private tours set in their natural habitats, expertly tailored to meet your expectations. With our warm, outgoing captains, you can look forward to memorable encounters with these incredible creatures. For more information, visit “Captain Mike’s Swimming with the Manatees” website.

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Can you kayak with manatees?

Yes, you can kayak with manatees and spend an amazing time in the water. While manatees are protected under state and federal laws, most restrictions on where to kayak are usually in winter. So if you plan your trip in summer, you can paddle almost anywhere you like with resident manatees. In winter, more restrictions are in place because of the larger manatee population in Florida’s warm water springs. Yet you can still paddle with manatees in areas where there are no restrictions—and there are several such spots.

Delightful, memorable experience

Kayaking is a reliable way to see the manatees up close. With a kayak, you can access narrow springs that other boats can’t reach. Hence, even with restrictions in place in the most popular manatee spots, a kayak allows you to find the animals in areas without restrictions. You can bring your kayak or go on a guided kayak tour. Equally, a kayak navigates the waters quietly, so it will allow you to cross manatee-inhabited waters without scaring the animals. In turn, the sea cows continue with their routine as you paddle through, and you have enough time seeing them.

You can even anchor your kayak, slip into the water, and swim with them. The gentle and curious sea cows will not flee as long as they don’t feel scared by your presence. In fact, one or more of them may approach you for a closer interaction. Plus, the manatees like playing in the water, so you’ll likely see them make cute somersaults and barrel rolls that will fascinate you.

What precautions should you follow when kayaking with manatees?

  1. Keep to a distance that does not change manatee behavior. If a manatee responds to your presence, you’re too close.
  2. Avoid contact between manatees and your vessel. Also, avoid creating waves and currents as manatees are very sensitive to changes in water levels.
  3. Paddle with caution when near seagrass beds, refuge boundaries, or sanctuaries as manatees may be exiting or entering these areas.
  4. Avoid approaching a manatee you come across. If you find yourself too close to a manatee, back away to a reasonable distance.
  5. Wear polarized sunglasses to enable you see manatees underwater.
  6. Speak in a low tone and avoid loud noises and splashing.
  7. Never offer water or food to the manatees.
  8. Avoid paddling over a resting or sleeping man or manatee. The animals surface to breathe and could get startled by your vessel. Also, they are too large and can tip your vessel.
  9. Calves and juvenile manatees are too curious and playful. Avoid touching them.
  10. It is okay to take pictures, but avoid touching manatees for your pictures.

So where can you kayak with the manatees?

There are many places where you can kayak with manatees in Florida. Just make sure you’re respectful to the animals while in these areas. Remember, manatees are wild animals and deserve respect and protection.

  1. Crystal River
    One of the best places to kayak with manatees is Crystal River, Florida—due to its large manatee population. It boasts of Kings Bay and the Three Sisters Springs, where hundreds of sea cows can be found, especially in winter. Plus, it is one of the only places where you can legally swim with the animals.When kayaking in Crystal River’s Kings Bay, you begin your tour at Hunters Springs, paddle through the bay, and stop at Three Sisters Springs. It takes 30-45 minutes to kayak to Three Sisters Springs from your launch at Hunters Springs. Remember to stop just outside Three Sisters Springs since boats aren’t allowed inside during the manatee season.
  2. Silver Springs
    Being one of the biggest artesian springs globally and due to its large number of manatees, Silver Springs is a great spot to kayak with and view manatees—November to February being the best time to paddle in Silver Springs. It has clean waters that allow you to easily see the animals lounging and swimming around. And with a kayak, you can do a leisurely paddle through the waters and see the manatees.
  3. Longboat Key
    The calm, shallow waters of Longboat Key allow for an incredible kayaking with the manatees. You can go on a guided kayak tour or bring your kayak. The best time to paddle with manatees in Longboat Key is from November to April.
  4. Homosassa River
    Homosassa River is a great place to kayak with manatees all year round. It is home to many manatees that you can see from a kayak. The best time to kayak in Homosassa River is from November to March when the water is warmer.
  5. Blue Spring State Park
    Blue Spring State Park is home to a large number of manatees that you can see while kayaking. The best time to kayak in Blue Spring State Park is from November to March when the water is warmer.

In conclusion, kayaking with manatees is an incredible experience that you don’t want to miss. Just remember to respect the animals and their habitat and follow the guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of both yourself and the manatees. With a little planning and caution, you can have a safe and enjoyable kayaking experience with these amazing creatures.

At Captain Mike’s Swimming with the Manatees, we consider kayaking as one of the best ways to view the manatees without disrupting their everyday lives. That’s why we offer guided kayak tours with manatees to help visitors encounter these majestic creatures up close.

Get in touch with us to book your tour with the manatees and have your kayak and gear prepared well ahead of your trip. If you’re an experienced kayaker, you can also rent one of our top-notch vessels and enjoy a solo tour.

For more information on swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking with manatees in Florida, visit our website at “Captain Mike’s Swimming with the Manatees.“

Do manatees lay eggs or give birth?

Manatees are aquatic mammals. And mammals do not lay eggs—with the exception of the duck-billed platypus and the spiny anteater that both lay eggs. 

So, manatees do not lay eggs. Instead, they give birth to live young ones. Plus, as mammals, they have mammary glands, hair around their body, and use lungs for gaseous exchange.

How do manatees give birth to their young ?

Manatees exhibit standard mammalian sexual reproduction. And in order to have a baby, sperm from a male fertilizes an ovum of a female. The female manatee then carries the pregnancy for one year and gives birth to a live calf.

Female manatees, called cows, are sexually mature by the age of 5 years. Males, called bulls, take longer and are often sexually mature by the age of 9-10 years.

Once a sexually mature cow goes into estrus—a period in its sexual cycle during which it is ready to accept a bull and to mate—it produces pheromones. Pheromones are behavior-altering chemicals that trigger bulls to be attracted to cows.

As bulls are attracted to the cow in estrus, a mating herd is formed, consisting of one cow being followed by a group of 5-6 males. Some mating herds can be as big as 12-25 bulls circling around one cow.

The bulls in the herd chase the cow for the chance to mate with it. The males mate with the female indiscriminately, though age and experience of the bulls in the herd plays a critical role in breeding success. 

Actual mating takes a few minutes and if successful the cow conceives. Then, the bulls soon disperse and allow the cow to go through gestation, which lasts 12-14 months.

How do manatees give birth?

A manatee calf is born with either the head or the tail first. And usually, the cow gives birth to a single baby, though in rare circumstances twins can occur.

At birth, a calf is 1.2 to 1.4 m (4-4.5 ft.) and weighs approximately 27 to 32 kg (60-70 lb.). The calf also has folds in its skin, which last for several weeks.

A baby manatee is born underwater and is able to swim to the water surface on its own to take the first breath. But usually does so with the guidance of the mother.  A calf is also able to vocalize soon after birth, with the sound being important for mother-calf bonding.

What does a baby manatee feed on?

A baby manatee feeds on milk from the teats of the mother. The teats are found under pectoral flippers and strategically placed for easy suckling. 

A few hours after birth, the baby manatee suckles milk while underwater. The milk is predominantly water, but contains 13-percent lipids and 7-percent protein. 

Then, about 2-3 weeks after birth, the calf starts nibbling on plants. It gradually copies the mother’s herbivorous lifestyle and is weaned off milk by the end of the first year.

A calf remains with the mother for up to 2 years. During this period, the calf depends on the mother for protection. Also, the calf learns about resting areas, warm water refuges, and migration routes from the mother. 

How often do manatees give birth?

Manatees have a long gestation period that is followed by up to 2 years of nursing and caring for their calves. Hence, cows give birth every 2-5 years. Only a cow that has aborted or lost a baby may give birth sooner, usually one year after the previous birth.

While manatees can give birth at any time of the year, most births tend to occur during specific periods of the year. For example, Florida manatees give birth to most of their calves in spring and summer. 

Personalized, delightful manatee tours

Would you like to see, swim or snorkel with the manatees? At Captain Mike’s swimming with the manatees, we offer customized manatee tours that allow you to have an awesome experience with these adorable creatures in the wild.

Book your tour with us now and enjoy an outing of a lifetime. For more information on manatees and manatee tours in Crystal River, Florida, visit the site “Captain Mike’s swimming with the manatees.”

Facts about manatees

Manatees are animals of the phylum Chordata.  They belong to the class Mammalia, the order Sirenia, and the family Trichechidae. 

There are three species of manatees. First, the Amazonian manatee (Trichechus inunguis) that resides in the Amazon Basin. second, the West Indian Manatee (Trichechus manatus) found in the Caribbean, South and North Atlantic waters. Third, the West African manatee (Trichechus senegalensis) that inhabits the West African coast.  

The West Indian Manatee has two subspecies. First, the Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris). And second, Antillean manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus). 

Here are 30 facts you should know about manatees.

Manatees are animals of the phylum Chordata.  They belong to the class Mammalia, the order Sirenia, and the family Trichechidae. 

There are three species of manatees. First, the Amazonian manatee (Trichechus inunguis) resides in the Amazon Basin. Second, the West Indian Manatee (Trichechus manatus) can be found in the Caribbean, South and North Atlantic waters. Third, the West African manatee (Trichechus senegalensis) inhabits the West African coast.  

The West Indian Manatee has two subspecies. First, the Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris). And second, Antillean manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus). 

 

Here are 30 facts you should know about manatees.

  1. Warm tropical and subtropical waters are inhabited by aquatic mammals.

Manatees are rare aquatic mammals that dwell in warm, shallow tropical and subtropical waters. For instance, the West African manatee inhabits freshwater and saltwater bodies from Senegal to Angola along the West African coast.

The West Indian Manatee resides in tropical and subtropical waters of the Caribbean and South and North Atlantic. It freely moves between shallow freshwater, saltwater, and brackish areas, needing water above 68 degrees Fahrenheit for survival.

The Florida manatee, a subspecies, is primarily found in Florida but ranges as far north as Rhode Island, Mississippi, and Houston, Texas.

The Antillean manatee, another subspecies, is found in the Caribbean, Mexico, and northeastern South America, and extends its range through Central and South America to Brazil.

The Amazonian manatee is confined to freshwater habitats and does not move into saltwater and brackish areas. It is found in the Amazon Basin, Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia.

  1. They are close relatives to elephants

Manatees dwell in water, but their closest living relatives are the elephants, aardvark, and the tiny gopher-like hyraxes.

  1. They are large, fascinating animals 

Manatees are large, lumbering creatures. On average, an adult manatee is 9 feet long and weighs 800 pounds, but the Amazonian species is much smaller than both the West Indian and West African manatees.

An adult West Indian or West African manatee grows to an average of 3 meters (10 feet) long and 1000 pounds in weight, though a sizeable number are as big as 4.5 meters (13 feet) long and 1650 kilograms (3500 pounds) weight.

In contrast, the largest Amazonian manatee is 3.0 meters (10 feet) long and weighs 480 kilograms (1058 pounds). The largest manatee ever found was a West Indian Manatee weighing 1655 kilograms (3650 pounds).

  1. They predominantly dwells in shallow waters

Manatees usually prefer life in shallow water, inhabiting rivers, canals, saltwater bays, and marshy coastal areas. The water depth ranges from 3 to 10 feet.

The West Indian manatee adapts to a wide range of freshwater, salty, and brackish rivers, canals, estuaries, bays, and coastal rivers with lots of sea grass and other vegetation.

The West African manatee lives in quiet freshwater, saltwater, and brackish coastal areas, lagoons, large rivers, and lakes. However, the Amazonian manatee is restricted to shallow freshwater areas only, such as floodplain lakes and white-water river systems.

  1. They survive at specific water temperature

Manatees seem large and fat, but lack blubber to control body temperature. Their low metabolism limits heat production. They eat low-calorie foods.

Thus, manatees need warm water at a specific temperature to survive and avoid fatal hypothermia and cold-shock.

The West Indian manatee prefers water above 70 degrees Fahrenheit, the West African above 64 degrees Fahrenheit, and the Amazonian between 77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit.

  1. They have amazingly streamlined body

Despite their large size, manatees maintain a remarkably streamlined body, suitable for their aquatic lifestyle. A typical manatee has a full, round middle portion that contracts at the ends, tapering to the head and narrowing to a paddle-shaped tail.

This streamlined body shape allows manatees to move gracefully and efficiently through the water, making them agile swimmers despite their massive appearance. Their unique body structure is a remarkable adaptation that helps them navigate their natural habitats with ease.

  1. They are slow, lumbering creatures

By their nature, manatees like to swim slowly, often at 5 miles per hour. It is due to their slow manner that algae and barnacles tend to grow on their backs. Nevertheless, when necessary, a manatee can swim at a faster speed of up to 15 miles per hour, though in short bursts.

  1. They are gray in color

The true color of a manatee is gray. However, due to their slow-moving nature, some manatees appear brown or green because of growth of organisms such as algae on their skin. Plus, some manatees have white or pink patches on their chest and belly.

  1. They have hairy, sensitive skin

Manatees have a thick skin with millions of hair, called vibrissae. The hair gives them a remarkable sense of touch. This enables them to swiftly detect changes in their environment.

  1. They are surprisingly agile creatures

For such a huge animal, manatees are still startlingly very agile. In fact, a manatee in a playful mood can swim vertically, upside down, somersault, or barrel roll for entertainment.

  1. They are heavy grazers

Manatees are called sea cows because just like land-dwelling cows, they are avid grazers. A manatee wakes up early and then goes on to graze for the next 6-8 hours.  Each day, a sea cow consumes up to 100 pounds in vegetation, which is 10-percent of its body weight.

The animals feed on up to 60 species of shoreline, floating, and underwater plants, though more often they consume sea grass found along the sea floor. Occasionally, they eat foods other than plants, such as clams and fish from nets

  1. They are fasting masters

Though they are fervent grazers, manatees also know how to survive in the seasons of scarcity. So a sea cow usually consumes lots of vegetation and stores energy in the form of glycogen and fat, which it can rely on during seasons when there is inadequate vegetation. When it is dry and grass is scarce, manatees, especially the Amazonian species, can fast for up to 7 months.

  1. They are indicators of ecosystem health

Manatees typically rely on their surrounding for their daily meal. And each day, they consume loads of vegetation from their habitat. Hence, they can only be as healthy and as flourishing as their immediate environment. Manatees are therefore an indicator species, and when they are thriving they indicate a flourishing ecosystem, and vice versa.

  1. Females are bigger and mature earlier than males

Female manatees, called cows, are larger in size than males, known as bulls. A cow is typically sexually mature by the ages of 3-5 years. In contrast, a bull is sexually mature by the ages of 9-10, with only a few having viable sperm by 2-3 years. 

  1. Manatees have no lifetime sexual relationships

Manatees mate in herds, called mating herds. A mating herd is made up of one cow and 4-6 bulls, though some herds can have up to 12 bulls. 

In a mating herd, the bulls compete with one another for the chance to mate with the cow. The mating process is typically cutthroat and even violent, with bulls chasing after the cow and running off and back to the herd.

Once mating is successful, the herd breaks up and the relationship between the cow and the bulls ends. So, there is no lifetime bond between any cows and bulls.

  1. A full-year gestation period

After a cow conceives, it will carry the pregnancy to a full term of 12 months. Upon giving birth, which usually occurs underwater, the mother brings the calf to the water surface for the first breath and begins nursing and protecting the calf for the next 2 years.

A manatee can give birth to a young one once every 3 years, but can do so sooner in case of death of the calf. Also, a cow can give birth to twins, though that is usually rare.

 Calves rely on milk from the mother’s teats found under the pectoral flippers, and learn to nibble on grass after 2-4 weeks from birth.

  1. Inspired mermaid legends

In 1492, Christopher Columbus reported that he saw 3 mermaids during his first voyage to the Americas. And to him, the mermaids he saw were not as beautiful as was often said since their faces had masculine traits. Later on, it was realized that the animals Columbus saw were actually manatees.

Manatees belong to the biological group sirenians.  They got the name from Greek mythological sirens—a popular type of mermaid thought to lure sailors through songs. And they are the animals that sailors previously reported as mermaids, inspiring the mermaid legends.

  1. Have to breathe to survive in water

Manatees have to breathe to survive. The reason for this is they are mammals using their lungs for gaseous exchange. They have adapted to staying underwater and breathing at intervals over time.

Hence, a manatee breathes by coming to the water surface every 3-5 minutes. When resting or sleeping, a sea cow may take up to 20 minutes before surfacing for breath.

Similarly, when very active, especially when swimming at faster speeds, mating, or escaping danger, a manatee requires more air and surfaces for breath as fast as every 30 seconds.

  1. Tiny brain, but very intelligent

Despite being a large mammal, a manatee possesses a remarkably small and smooth brain. Surprisingly, the animal displays good cognitive ability. Experiments have shown that a manatee can learn and perform various tasks just as well as a dolphin. This highlights their intelligence and adaptability in their aquatic environment.

  1. Unable to turn the head

Almost all mammals have 7 neck vertebrae. This allows them to turn their heads with ease. However, manatees and sloths have an abnormal number, having 6 neck vertebrae. As a result, the missing vertebra responsible for turning the head, a manatee must turn its whole body to look around.

  1. Poor color vision

Manatees have well-developed eyes capable of seeing objects from tens of meters away in water. Plus, their retina has sufficient rods and cons for both dim and bright light vision. Nevertheless, while they can distinguish blue and green colors, they don’t have good color vision.

  1. Produce striking sounds

The adorable mammals communicate with unique sounds. A manatee uses its larynx to chirp, whistle, or squeak to express sexual arousal, fear, or desire to interact with another manatee. These vocalizations play a crucial role in their social interactions and understanding their environment.

  1. Re-grow teeth throughout their life

Manatees have only one type of teeth—molars. They constantly grow new molars as the old ones wear out and are replaced. This teeth regeneration is critical for their herbivorous lifestyle, as the vegetation they feed on is often filled with sand, which can wear down their teeth quickly. The continuous replacement ensures they can effectively chew their food and maintain their diet.

  1. Have no natural predators

No natural enemies prey on manatees, and they inhabit shallow waters, avoiding potential predators like crocodiles, killer whales, or sharks.

In fact, humans pose the major threat to the sea cows as they have hunted them for meat, fat, and tough hides—hunting manatees is illegal. Human activities in their habitat and encroachment on their habitat further threaten their survival, leading to habitat loss and disturbance.

Conservation efforts and stricter enforcement of protective laws are essential to ensure the continued survival and well-being of these gentle creatures. Public awareness and responsible behavior near manatee habitats also play a significant role in safeguarding their future in our shared ecosystems.

  1. Long lifespan

Manatees live for an average of 20-35 years due to various threats to their lives. However, they can live even longer, up to 60 years or more, as demonstrated by Snooty, who died at the age of 69 years.

 

  1. Friendly, gentle creatures

Manatees do not bite or attack humans. They are peaceful, gentle, curious and playful. When you are in their habitat, the animals can approach you for an up close encounter, which is a thrilling, unforgettable experience.

  1. Can accidentally flip boats

Manatees are huge in size, but they show no aggression towards humans and boats. However, when scared, cornered, in a mating season, or unaware of a boat’s presence, a manatee may hit and accidentally flip a boat or kayak.

  1. Threatened species

Manatees are considered a threatened animal. They die in large numbers. This is due to nutrient runoff from factory farming that reaches the ocean and promote growth of toxic algal blooms. As a result, destroys the vegetation they feed on. 

For years, manatees have been on the endangered species list, but have since been moved to the threatened species category.

Florida manatee is susceptible to cold. They tend to die of cold shock when exposed to water temperatures below 68 degrees Fahrenheit for an extended period. But, it is human activities that pose the greatest risk to the animals. Many of them die or get injured by watercraft. 

There are other threats including poaching, entanglement, and habitat destruction. 

  1. Protected animals

All manatees are endangered or threatened. So, they are protected by national and local legislation.

Florida manatees are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) of 1972 and the Florida Marine Sanctuary Act of 1978. 

Manatee protection and recovery strategies are coordinated by the United States Fish & Wildlife Service.

  1. Swimming with them is legal in Crystal River, Florida

Watching manatees from a boardwalk or boat is exciting, but nothing beats the experience of being in the water with these gigantic creatures. Fortunately, you can legally get in the water and snorkel with them in Crystal River, Florida—one of the few places across the globe where you can lawfully do so.

Swimming with manatees allows you to observe their gentle nature up close and witness their graceful movements. You can connect with nature and appreciate these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.

During the encounter, a group of curious manatees may surround you, nuzzling and interacting with you, leaving unforgettable memories. You will thrill at seeing these gentle giants glide gracefully through the clean waters, an experience that will stay with you forever.

In addition to being an incredible wildlife encounter, swimming with manatees promotes environmental conservation and fosters a deeper appreciation for preserving their habitats. Essential for a positive impact on their well-being and the sustainability of this unique experience for future generations are responsible eco-tourism practices and respect for the manatees’ space.

As you marvel at the wonders of these marine mammals, you become an ambassador for their protection, spreading awareness about safeguarding their habitat and addressing the various threats they face in the wild.

So, if you have the chance to visit Crystal River, Florida, take the plunge and immerse yourself in the captivating world of manatees. Your encounter with these gentle giants will surely leave you with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and importance of our marine ecosystems.

For more information on manatees, visit the site “Captain Mike’s swimming with the manatees.”

Manatee tours: A thrill of a lifetime

A manatee tour in Crystal River, Florida is certainly one of the most delightful adventures. Not only does it offer you the chance to ride through the clean waters where the aquatic giants live, but it also gives you the opportunity to snorkel into the water and swim with a rare, adorable mammal.

For a memorable encounter with the sea cows, you float gently in water and observe them from a short, safe distance. And by the principle of passive observation, you stay calm and patient, allowing the animals to go about their routine undisturbed—grazing, playing, mating, nursing, resting, or sleeping.

From your position, the manatees underwater will look like gray clusters. But as you observe them keenly, you’ll quickly realize that you’re into something special; an encounter with a fascinating animal.

Heart-warming encounter

Some just see them from a distance while others get hugs from them. Most often, you attract the manatees to you by how you behave during your time in their habitat, although at times it is only a matter of luck.

Being approached by a gigantic animal can make you anxious. But you need to calm down—reassured by the knowledge that the sea cows neither bite nor attack humans.

Now, the manatee will come close, gaze at you with its crinkly eyes, and decide whether to interact with you more intimately. Many say this is the most exhilarating moment. 

The manatee may roll over and request a belly rub. Or it may show off its surprising agility in the water with rolls and somersaults, creating light waves in the relatively still sanctuaries. 

Having a giant animal put on a show for you is an extraordinary experience. 

And what if no manatee approaches you? Well, you’ll still have fun watching them up close and intimately. 

Of course, the sea cows come to the surface to breathe. It’s exciting to see their round nostrils peer out from the water near you. And even more electrifying watching their friendly prehensile lips, abundant whiskers, and large, fan-shaped tails splash the water surface.

Why is a manatee tour a thrill of a lifetime?

  1. Manatees are an awesome giant

The normal size of a manatee is 9-10 feet long and 1000 pounds of weight. Though the animals can grow to over 13 feet and weigh up to 3,500 pounds. So by sheer size alone manatees are super attractive.  

The experience is made even more delightful by the opportunity to see tens or hundreds of these huge creatures huddled side by side in water. And also by the fact that you can dive into the water and snorkel with them.

  1. Manatees have enchanting features

Manatees aren’t just big animals. They possess charming features, too. For instance, manatees have chubby and puppy-looking faces, and whisker-covered upper lips, which will interest you. 

They have two forelimb flippers for their movement and for holding vegetation. And have an evenly rounded paddle-shaped tail that moves up and down as they swim. 

Also, the sea cows create a lot of amazing scenes as they move around in water with their huge fat body. One thing that is sure to fascinate you is the fact that manatees fart loudly as they swim and maintain their balance in water. 

  1. Manatees are acutely social animals

Manatees are social animals with a gentle, friendly, curious, and playful nature. Because they are not aggressive, you can interact with them from a close range and like how jolly and lovely they are.

You’ll also be thrilled by how manatees bond with one another. For instance, mothers nurse and protect their calves for about two years while manatee herds are formed by up to 6 males circling around a single cow. While they don’t have lifetime relationships or families, it is still awesome observing the beautiful bonds between them.

Eventful, thrilling manatee tours

Observing manatees from a close range is a refreshing, delightful undertaking. Not only do you experience a rush of warm, pleasant emotions, but you also learn a lot about the threatened animals and their habitat, and the need to save them.  At Captain Mike’s Swimming with the Manatees, we are a professional outfitter that offers thrilling, eco-friendly manatee tours.  Through knowledgeable and experienced captains, we ensure that our visitors see and swim with manatees in a respectful manner and have excellent, memorable encounters with them in the wild. Book your manatee tour with us today so you don’t miss the thrill and pleasure of meeting the sea cows in Crystal River, Florida. For more information on manatees and manatee tours, visit the site “Captain Mike’s Swimming with the Manatees.”